endings as beginnings
The last few months have brought with them a bewildering array of changes, new routines, new ways of working and the confusing situation of trying to establish whether I actually have more or indeed, less, time, pressure and demands. I suppose in reality, I definitely have less time and more demands but perhaps more stability and looking forward, more flexibility (hopefully).
I am thankful that the allotment is slumbering during this period of transition. I am still taking a walk up there every few days to drop off bits for the compost and to check on the progress of my broad beans and garlic. I need to bring over some more bricks from the in-laws for my little paths which I am creating to divide up the big beds, so that I don’t trample the soil as much. In my little greenhouses at home, I am battling to keep my autumn-sown Sweet Peas and other seedlings alive but the spring bulbs are popping up everywhere in the tiny garden, bringing with them the promise of early colour. I have also been enjoying the fruits of my labour in the form of tomatoes grown from cuttings from this year’s allotment crop, growing in the greenhouse-like conditions of my studio’s bay window.
I haven’t had as much time or energy for making recently but little projects such as lavender bags made from my home-grown lavender and vintage textiles, have been achievable. I also made my festive wreath for our front door. I have been using the same willow base for perhaps a decade or more but I change what I decorate it with each year. My aim is that I do not buy anything new to use on the wreath, so it has to include either found foliage or materials I already own. This year, I used fabric scraps and ivy. I really enjoyed the process and I am pleased with the end result. I might even use this one again around the time of the summer solstice and the town’s Mazey Day celebrations, so I may not dismantle it any time soon.
Another achievable way for me to remain connected to my creative work during this time has been picking up my pencils. Leaves have been my sketch of choice for as long as I can remember (many of my school exercise books were covered in them). I don’t have to think, I can just sketch and I always feel better for spending time this way.
My on / off relationship with Instagram is once again in the ‘off’ category. I have removed the app from my phone. I still have access to my one remaining account via my computer but it is not my intention to post; I can just check in from time-to-time if needed. Saying goodbye has brought with it a huge amount of relief and more time for reading, which has to be a good thing.
The last few years have been an absolute rollercoaster and a fairly terrifying one at that. 2026 is set to be another big year for my family with many more changes ahead. I do hope that these changes will be positive ones and that the new year can bring with it peace and stability for all.
